Cars are the second biggest cause of global warming, but there’s no need to switch to a bicycle just yet. You can reduce your carbon footprint by simply changing the way you drive. Not only does this help protect the planet, it also saves you money.

Here are several eco-friendly tips to keep in mind when you are on the road:

Check your tyres
Keep your tyres inflated slightly over the pressure suggested by the manufacturer of your car. Under inflating your tyres by just 7psi wastes 2.5 litres in every tank of petrol!

Lighten your load

Reduce fuel consumption by removing unnecessary items from your car that don’t need to be aboard for a certain journey, such as golf clubs, tools, etc.

Less is more

Make sure the petrol attendant does not overfill your tank when refuelling, as spilled fuel evaporates and releases harmful fumes.

Drive smoothly
Harsh accelerating and braking uses up fuel. Be aware of your surroundings so that you are able to anticipate when to slow down or stop, well in advance.

Do not leave the engine idling

Idling uses up more fuel than re-starting the engine, so turn off the engine when you are going to stop for more than 30 seconds.

Use the highest gear possible
To lower your fuel costs, protect your vehicle's transmission and reduce emissions, change gears as early as possible and into the highest appropriate gear without ‘revving’ the engine.

Use your AC wisely
Use the air-conditioning only when it's necessary - the more you use it, the more often you’ll visit a petrol station.

Roll up your windows

Even though the AC increases fuel consumption, when travelling at a speed higher than 40kph, it is still more economical to use it, than to have the windows open, to avoid the so-called aerodynamic drag.